Can strokes be prevented?

Up to 80% of strokes are preventable through lifestyle changes and managing medical conditions. Key prevention measures include: keeping blood pressure under control, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet low in salt and saturated fat, limiting alcohol, not smoking, and managing conditions like atrial fibrillation and diabetes.

With family history, I would recommend getting your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checked annually from your 30s. The biggest modifiable risk factors for stroke are high blood pressure (causes about 50% of all strokes), smoking, and atrial fibrillation. Your GP can assess your overall cardiovascular risk and advise on preventive measures.

This is an important stroke question. We recommend speaking with your GP for personalised advice. You can also contact NHS 111 (free, 24/7) for urgent guidance, or visit nhs.uk for trusted health information. Please note: this is general health information, not a substitute for professional medical advice.